PLETTENBERG BAY NEWS - The eight-year-old Indiphile Barens' face lit up with joy last Friday when he received an early Christmas gift at Formosa Primary School.

This young soccer fan was surprised with a donation of soccer equipment by local entrepreneur Malick Mpunjo, a businessman and hair stylist from Tanzania who also sells sports gear.

"Thank you so much, sir, this is very nice!" was about all Indiphile could muster as he smiled from ear tot ear upon receiving his gift.

His class teacher, Brunique Jansen, described him as a hardworking learner facing significant challenges at home. 

Despite repeating Grade One due to these difficulties, Indiphile's passion for soccer has remained strong. At times he even missed school, but thanks to the school's intervention and the support from his grandmother, he was encouraged to return to class.

Former youth coach Bongile Tabata, who witnessed Indiphile's talent at Bossiesgif Stadium, praised Mpunjo's generosity and hopes this support will unlock the boy's potential. 

Indiphile currently lives with his grandmother and two cousins in Bossiesgif, now equipped and motivated to chase his dreams on the soccer field.

Mpunjo said he was raised by a single parent, and although it was difficult growing up, he received a lot of support from various people around in his home town in Tanzania. 

"I didn't struggle and lose hope, because they loved me so much. I just felt it was time for me to do the same for the disadvantaged children in Plettenberg Bay."

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